Submersible video viewing system

ABSTRACT

A modular, submersible video viewing system. The system includes a viewing monitor, camera and interconnecting multi-conductor cable that store at a portable housing and deploy for underwater viewing. Webs at the camera housing interconnect to cable clips, bottom support plates, a swivel coupler or steering guide and/or pole to control camera orientation when towed or during stationary or pole directed viewing. Alternative rudders and/or hydrodynamic ballast weights (with or without a keel) mount to the webs to control camera tracking. A multi-aperture reflection suppressor and etched lens mount to the camera and cooperate with a series of LED&#39;s to direct light relative to the viewing field of the camera lens. Various sunshields, lights and/or lenses and filters are optionally mountable to the monitor housing or camera. Alternative monitor housings are disclosed that contain the viewing monitor, battery and attendant control circuitry and camera. Handles, cable wraps, cable take-up spools and integral and detachable sunshields are also disclosed. A video storage/re-play feature and combinations of switched multi-frequency lights are also included.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/611,261, filed Jul. 6,2000, U.S. Pat. No. 6,262,761; which is a continuation-in-part of Ser.No. 09/186,593, filed Nov. 5, 1998, U.S. Pat. No. 6,097,424; andapplication Ser. No. 29/119,957, filed Mar. 10, 2000, U.S. Pat. No.D438,881; and application Ser. No. 29/116,362, filed Dec. 30, 1999, U.S.Pat. No. D439,589.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to portable underwater viewing systemsand, in particular, a number of alternative systems including cameraassemblies with improved camera tracking and enhanced light distributionand portable monitor housings with improved cable take-up capabilities,re-playable viewing and detachable sunshields.

Varieties of sonar depth indicators and fish-finders have been developedto assist fresh and saltwater fisherman. These devices monitor solidobjects that are encompassed in a column of water included in the pathsof transmitted and reflected signals relative to the bottom of a body ofwater. The objects are displayed at surface monitors as flashes oflight, marks on a paper graph or indicia at a screen of a CRT, LCD orother electronic display.

Depending upon device capabilities, sonar equipment will detect anddisplay fish, debris, flotsam, thermo clines, and bottom structure andhardness, among other physical parameters of possible interest. Theutility of any device, however, is dependent upon the operator's abilityto distinguish and interpret displayed indicia. Electronic circuitry canbe included to assist in the display of data. For example, a fish symbolcan be displayed after passing received signals through a comparatorcircuit having a threshold level indicative of a fish. A variety ofother automatic detection, interpretation and presentation circuitry forother parameters of interest can also be designed into each monitoringsystem.

Sophisticated, real time underwater video systems have also beendeveloped for use in deepwater exploration. This equipment is verycostly and is typically used by oil companies, archaeologists,researchers and salvage operators. However, it provides a true videoimage of encountered objects, fish etc.

Less sophisticated video systems have also been developed for sportfishing applications. These systems include submersible black and whiteor color cameras, a surface monitor and a signal cable that shroudsnecessary power and optical conductors. Camera support assemblies arealso available that accept a rudder or pole. Mounts are also availablefor attaching lights to the sides of the camera. Some systems provideaudio capabilities.

Existing systems are generally configured around “off the shelf”components. Consequently, operating performance can suffer from aninability to maintain a known and constant attitude and orientation ofthe camera to a support watercraft. Sunlight can affect viewing at themonitor screen. Reflections from camera mounted lights and diffusedlight in the water can produce reflections that degrade the clarity ofthe transmitted and/or received video. Heat from associated lights canalso affect camera longevity. Cord and component storage and deploymentcan also be cumbersome.

The present system was developed to provide a modular collection ofcomponents that are combined to overcome problems of component storage,moisture contamination at the camera, monitor viewing, and hydrodynamictracking of the camera relative to boat or pole movement. A number ofalternative monitor housings contain and protect the viewing monitor andstore attendant support and control equipment, such as a battery powersupply and control circuitry, cabling and the camera and attachments.Hand operated cable take-up spools are integrated into the housings.Integral and detachable sunshields improve viewing under a variety oflight conditions. The monitor housings can be supported on a boat deck,a pivot bracket at the boat or housing.

The camera includes a number of internal light sources. A reflectionsuppressor/diffuser and tailored lenses or lens covers havinganti-reflective coatings, shaped curvatures, bi-focal surfaces or etchedor raised patterns are fitted to the camera housing to control thelighting relative to the camera lens. The camera housing is filled witha desiccant. Webs at the camera housing accept a variety of accessories,for example, rudders, ballast's, attitude controls, mounting clips,filters, external lights and/or other cameras. The cable core is filledwith foam and other materials to prevent the migration of moisture andself-heal if abraded.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is a primary object of the invention to provide a modular,submersible, video viewing system.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a portable monitorhousing that contains a viewing monitor, necessary audio, and videocontrols and that stores the camera, cable and all system accessoriesfor ready deployment.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a monitor housinghaving an integral handle, a shrouded sun shield, and a pivot bracketthat permits operator viewing from seated or upright positions.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a monitor housingthat contains a battery supply, an external power converter and/or AC/DCpower monitor, audio speakers, camera and monitor controls, and storagespace for system attachments and accessories.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a rubber-coatedcamera having concentrically arranged infrared (IR), infra-blue (IB)and/or infra-green (IG) lights, a sealed desiccant, a protruding bumperring and a coated, etched or shaped lens and/or lens cover to enhanceviewing and/or reduce reflections, refraction and internal heat buildup.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a camera housing thatis compatible with accessory lenses, light filters, ballast weights,hydrodynamic rudders and keels, attitude controls, a pole and/orstationary viewing supports.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a video system thatcan accommodate multiple cameras to provide forward and back viewingand/or an expanded field of view.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a moisture, sealed,self-healing cable that includes a number of power and signalconductors, a fiber core that prevents stretching, and/or means fordynamically controlling cable and camera orientation.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a viewing monitorhousing having a hand-operated or motorized cable take-up spool tofacilitate cable retrieval and deployment.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a take-up spoolincluding slip ring couplings to the cable conductors.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a multi-sectionballast and variety of hydrodynamic rudders/keels that facilitate cameratracking during forward or back viewing.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a cable clip tofacilitate camera attachment to a weighted downrigger cable.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a lightdiffuser/reflection suppressor light ring that aligns to internalillumination sources at the camera.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a camera with a lenscover having etched or raised surfaces to control emitted light.

It is a further object of the invention to provide video storagecircuitry for storing a predetermined number of frames of images forconvenient re-play.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a number of portableviewing systems containing alternative monitor housings, cable take-upassemblies and sunshields.

The foregoing objects, advantages and distinctions of the invention,among others, are obtained in a number of alternative configurations ofpresently preferred viewing systems. In a first construction, a viewingmonitor and system accessories are stored in multiple compartments of acarry case. A spool mounts around the case and stores a system cable. Afabric shroud or sunscreen can be fitted to the monitor.

In another construction, a portable housing is formed to permanentlysupport the viewing monitor, attendant power supply and controlcircuitry to permit viewing through a shrouded or sun screened viewingspace. The housing includes a handle, cable wraps, a camera storagecavity, and recessed input and output controls. The housing can besupported from the ground or a pivoting mounting bracket.

A number of other alternative viewing monitor housings are alsodisclosed that provide hand and motor operated cable take-up spools.Slip ring connections are provided at the spools to the conductors of awound video cable.

The cable supports multiple conductors and a KEVLAR core in a foamfilled jacket that prevents moisture transmission to the camera. Amoisture-activated filler included in the cable jacket self-heals thejacket against punctures and abrasions. Hydrodynamic vanes can beattached to the cable jacket and/or the cable jacket can be constructedto facilitate cable movement with minimal lift at the camera.

The camera is packaged in a rubber housing that contains a desiccantmaterial. The camera housing may be purged with a rare earth gas. Anumber of lights are concentrically mounted within and/or around thecamera housing. A bifocal lens or lens cover coated with ananti-reflective material can be fitted to the camera to direct IR lightand reduce external glare and internal reflections. One or more lensesor filters can be mounted to the camera and/or a servo-controlled mountto rotate the filters and/or a desired lens into alignment with theprimary lens. A piezoelectric cooler can be fitted to the housing tocool the camera circuitry. External lights and a variety of sensors,such as for monitoring depth, temperature, pH, oxygen (O₂) and/or audio,can be mounted to the camera.

Bored webs project from the camera housing and selectively supportrudders, keels, ballast weights, a pole attachment, clip fasteners andstationary supports to control the camera orientation to the cableand/or lake bottom. A multi-section hydrodynamic ballast is alsodisclosed that mounts to the camera along with a number of alternativehydrodynamic rudders and keels that enable forward and back viewing.

Additional lights and a variety of other fittings, accessories andservo-controls can also be mounted to the camera. A detachable cameraclip facilitates attachment of a back viewing camera to a downriggercable and suspended ballast.

Reflections from internal lights are suppressed with a multi-aperturedring that aligns with the lights. Oblong tapered bores of the ringdirect light relative to the camera lens. Video storage circuitry can beincluded at a monitor housing to capture video images for replay.

Electrical or radio frequency (RF) controllers can be combined withappurtenant servo-controls to control monitor functions, such asswitching between included functions. Other servo-controls mounted tothe cable or signals directed from the cable can control cameraattitude, lens and/or filter configurations. A bottom trackingtransducer and servo can dynamically control the camera elevation toprevent snagging or damage from dragging.

Still other objects, advantages, distinctions and constructions of theinvention will become more apparent from the following description withrespect to the appended drawings. Similar components and assemblies arereferred to in the various drawings with similar alphanumeric referencecharacters. The description should not be literally construed inlimitation of the invention. Rather, the invention should be interpretedwithin the broad scope of the further appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a typical arrangement of the viewing system whentowed behind a watercraft.

FIG. 2 is a cross-section drawing through the cable.

FIG. 3 is an exploded assembly drawing to the camera, ballast and rudderand wherein the camera is shown in partial section.

FIG. 4 is a partial cross section drawing through the camera.

FIG. 5 is a perspective drawing to a hydrodynamic ballast weight.

FIG. 6 is a plan view to the camera rigged for vertical viewing.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a camera suspended from an ice hole.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a weighted, adjustable stationarysupport that supports the camera at a selected orientation to a lakebottom.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a wire formed, adjustable stationarysupport that supports the camera at a selected orientation to a lakebottom.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the camera rigged to a pole and with asteering cable.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view shown in partial cutaway to the viewingmonitor shrouded with a fitted fabric sun shield.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a camera fitted with a servo-controlledcollar that supports a number of filters and/or lenses that can berotated into registry with the camera lens.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a carry case for the system components.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view, shown in partial cutaway, of the systemcomponents mounted in a portable monitor housing that includes anintegral sun shield, the camera and cable and sundry accessories.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a monitor housing wherein the sunshield can be rotated or removed to permit viewing through a filterscreen and/or the housing can be mounted to rotate at a support bracket.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portable monitor housing thatincludes a cable deployment boom.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a portable monitor housing that has adetachable sunshield.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the portable monitor housing of FIG. 17with the sunshield removed to show the monitor.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portable monitor housing having ahand-cranked, cable take-up spool and wherein slip rings couple cableterminations at the spool to the housing circuitry.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view shown in exploded assembly to anotherportable hand-cranked, cable take-up spool and cam era.

FIG. 21 is a plan view to a second configuration of a forward viewingcamera, ballast and tracking fin.

FIG. 22 is a plan view to a third configuration of a forward viewingcamera, ballast and tracking fin.

FIG. 23 is a plan view to fourth configuration of a camera mounted to aballast and keel to support back viewing.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view shown in exploded assembly to a camerahaving a light diffuser/reflection suppressor ring mounted behind anetched lens cover and that is supported by an adjustable clip to adownrigger ballast cable.

FIG. 25 is a front view of the light diffuser/reflection suppressor ringcentered to the camera LED's.

FIG. 26 is a rear view to the camera and downrigger cable clip of theassembly of FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a front view of a camera outfitted with a concentric array ofhigh intensity, non-visible LED's to that provide a flood lightingeffect for low light situations.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a portable monitor housing having ahand-cranked, cable take-up spool and wherein a slip ring assembly atthe spool axle couples cable terminations at the spool to the housingcircuitry.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing front, right side and top views ofanother portable viewing system wherein a cable spool supports a storagebattery, camera, hinged monitor and detachable sunshield.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing rear, left side and top views ofthe portable viewing system of FIG. 29.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to FIG. 1, a submersible video viewing system 2 is shown as itappears when configured for operation from a watercraft or boat 4. Aviewing monitor 6 is supported at the boat 4 and a coaxial cable 8 istethered to a submerged camera 10. A pair of conductors 12, referenceFIG. 2, supply power and/or control signals to the camera 10. Additionalconductors may be included in the cable 8.

Video, audio and/or other control and/or sensed signals are transmittedover the conductors 12 between the camera 10, the monitor 6 andassociated control circuitry. A boat operator is thereby able tovisually monitor the presence of fish, submerged objects or anycondition capable of being detected and reported by associated sensors.The viewing range will depend on water clarity, depth and lightconditions, among other factors. Surface turbulence, drag and trackingat the camera 10 may also affect viewing. Other physical parameters mayalso be monitored by the camera 10 and associated sensors mounted to thecamera.

The relative position of the camera 10 to the boat 4 is principallydetermined by the speed of the boat 4 and the drag of the cable 8 andcamera 10. Preferably, a relatively slow speed (e.g. drifting to 2 mph)is maintained to better control the viewing position of the camera 10.The length of cable 8 trailed from the boat 4 will depend upon the cablethickness, cable hydrodynamics, camera hydrodynamics and the weight atthe camera 10. The cable 8 can be deployed by hand, such as from a handspool 64 or handles 94, reference FIGS. 13 and 14.

A manual or powered take-up, boom assembly 14, similar to a conventionaldownrigger, can be fitted to the boat 4 to release and retrieve thecable 8. The assembly 14 improves operator control over the cable 8 whenoperating at depths greater than 100 feet or over bottoms with severeelevation changes. Servo controls can cooperate with the assembly 14 tosense camera depth relative to the bottom to maintain a desiredposition. Alternatively, FIG. 16 shows a motorized boom assembly 15 andend-pulley 17 fitted to an improved monitor housing 80 that is discussedin detail below. The drive motor (not shown) is mounted in the housing80. FIGS. 19 and 20 disclose other camera housings 136 and 138 withintegral hand-cranked take-up spools.

With attention to FIG. 2, the cable 8 presently has a nominal diameterof 0.150 inches. A thermoplastic jacket or cover 9 contains threeconductors 12, a stranded KEVLAR cord 26 and foam filler 28. One-footmarkings are provided on the outer cover 9 to provide a reference in thedeployment of the cable 8. A water blocking gel material 29 is containedin the cable 8 that self-heals the cable 8. Upon exposure to moisture,the material 29 expands to fill any nicks or abrasions to the cover 9and prevent the migration of moisture through the cable 8 and into thecamera 10. A variety of other types of cables might also be used. Thenumber of conductors 12 can be varied depending upon the configurationof the camera 10 and/or available sensors or servos mounted along thecable 8 or at the camera 10.

With additional attention to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, a relatively constantorientation of the camera 10 is obtained with a rudder 16 and a ballastweight 18. Normally, the camera 10 is towed with an external lens orlens cover 24 facing forward. An internal camera lens 19 is centered toand spaced away from the lens 24. The camera 10 can also be towed facingbackward. The ballast weight 16 is supported to one of a number offlexible webs 20 that radiate from a rubberized housing or cover 22 atthe camera 10. Bolt and/or nut fasteners 21 and 23 secure the rudder 16and ballast weight 18 to the camera 10.

The ballast weight 18 stabilizes the camera 10 and adds weight tominimize the length of cable 8 that must be deployed. The shape of theballast 18 is formed to stabilize and control the hydrodynamic movementsof the camera 10. It is preferable to minimize the length of cable 8that is deployed to facilitate camera control. A relatively heavyballast weight 18 provides a generally vertical presentation at slowboat speeds. The amount of ballast weight 18 can be varied to offset thedrag of the cable 8 and camera 10. A ballast weight in the range of 1 to10 pounds is believed sufficient for the present system 2, when used infreshwater.

The rudder 16 is also secured to the aft web 20 of the camera 10 withfasteners 21 and 23. The shape of the rudder 16 can be varied asdesired. Presently, the rudder 16 is constructed from a Plexiglasmaterial. The rudder 16 can be constructed to a variety of shapes from avariety of materials, see also FIGS. 21 and 22 and the relateddiscussion to a multi-section ballast and rudders with different shapes.The rudder 16 may include additional sections that are hinged to pivotrelative to each other. The rudder 16 stabilizes the camera tracking andminimizes wobble or rotation. The resiliency of the web 20 alsofacilitates rudder movement and camera tracking by accommodating someside currents. The rudder 16 can also be outfitted with aservo-controller (not shown) to change the rudder angle relative to therudder 16 to better steer the camera 10.

FIG. 5 shows a ballast 17 that can be used in lieu of the ballast 18.The ballast 17 has a bulbous nose 19 and right and left side planingwings 27. The nose 19 and wings 27 improve the hydrodynamic trackingproperties of the ballast 17 and camera 10. A keel 31 (shown in dashedline) can also be mounted to the ballast 17 with fasteners 21. The keel31, versus the rudder 16, finds application when a rear-facing cameraconfiguration is assembled (e.g. a single rear pointed camera 10 orseparate fore and aft pointed cameras 10). FIG. 23 shows another keelfitted to a multi-section ballast.

Strain and stretching of the conductors 12, due to the ballasts 17 or 18and normal towing, is prevented via the KEVLAR cord or braiding 26 thatis contained in the cable 8. Vanes 30 having a variety of hydrodynamicshapes can also be attached to the cable 8 with clips 29 to maintaincamera orientation and reduce cable drag and cable tension. The vanes 30can also be molded into the cable cover 9. One or more servo-controlledor steer able vanes 30 might also be mounted to the cable 8 toprevent/minimize cable twisting and provide steady camera tracking.

In addition to being towed by a boat, the viewing system 2 can be usedin a variety of other applications. FIGS. 6 through 10 depictalternative mountings of the camera to accommodate some of theseapplications. FIG. 6 shows the camera 10 suspended in a verticalorientation with the lens 24 pointed down to permit bottom viewing. Aclip 34 secures a loop 35 of the cable 8 to the aft web 20. The weightof the camera 10 is thereby distributed to tip the lens 24 to a desiredangle.

The clip 34 finds particular application when suspending the camera 10from a relatively stationary platform, such as an ice fishing house orother stationary structure. FIGS. 24 and 25, which are discussed below,show an adjustable clip that can attach the camera to a downrigger cableto adjust the camera orientation when towed. Other attachments can befitted to the cable 8 and/or camera 10. FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 show variousassemblies to provide a stationary orientation of the camera 10.

FIG. 7 shows an arrangement where a support 33 grips the cable 8 andsuspends the camera 10 from an ice hole. The support 33 spans the holeand includes an arm 35 that is biased by a spring 37 to grip the cable8.

FIG. 8 shows a support 39 that contains the camera 10 and can rest onthe bottom of a lake. The orientation of the camera 10 can be changed byvarying the relative angle of pivot arms 41 and 43 and the rotation of arelatively heavy base plate 45.

FIG. 9 shows another lake or river bottom camera support 47. Formed arms49 are secured to the web 20. The arms 49 can be splayed apart tosupport the camera 10 at the bottom, such as a mud bottom. The camera 10can also be tipped or rotated relative to the arms 49 to obtain apreferred viewing orientation. The arms 49 can be weighted or mounted toholes provided at a separate ballast weight.

FIG. 10 shows a mounting arrangement of the camera 10 wherein the camera10 is secured to a pole 36. The pole 36 allows an operator to view underdocks, inspect the bottom of a boat, walls of a swimming pool or othersubmerged structures etc. A swivel coupler 38 is fitted between the pole36 and camera 10 and a steering wire 40 is secured to the top camera web20. The coupler 38 houses a joint capable of motion in multiple axes. Asthe wire 40 is extended, retracted or rotated the camera 10 can betipped and/or rotated in relation to movement of the pole 36 tooptimally position the camera 10 for viewing.

A variety of coupler types 38 that include ball or universal joints toprovide a desired freedom of movement can be fitted to the camera 10.The specific mechanical attachment to the camera 10 will depend upon theconfiguration of the coupler 38. The cable 8 might also be outfittedwith a steering wire 40 or servo-control that cooperates with a coupler38 at the camera 10 to direct camera motion when towed or suspended.

Depending upon ambient lighting conditions at the surface and below thewater, the system 2 includes provisions at the monitor 6 and camera 10to improve viewing. A sunshield 42 is shown at FIG. 11 that can bemounted to the monitor 6 to overcome sunlight and reflections at thescreen 44. The shield 42 is made from an opaque fabric material and canbe sewn to a shape appropriate to fit the monitor 6. The sections of thesunshield 42 can also be constructed of rigid materials, such as variousplastics or sheeting materials. Alternatively, strips of hook and loopfastener material 46 and 48, such as VELCRO, or other mating fastenerscan be positioned over the surface of the shield 42 to fit monitors of avariety of shapes. Contrast and gain controls at the monitor 6 can alsoimprove viewing. The sunshield 42 might also be constructed withmultiple telescoping sections that mount to each other.

Returning attention to FIG. 4 and mounted inside the camera housing 22and concentrically arranged around the circumference of the camera lens24 are a number of infrared (IR) lights 50 that operate in the range of750 to 900 nanometers. Power to the lights 50 is provided from the boat4. The lights 50 increase the available ambient light and can improvethe viewing distance by several feet. The lights 50 find particularapplication when attempting viewing in stained waters or at depths of 30or more feet. Typical viewing distances of 10 to 15 feet are possiblewith the camera 10 and IR lights 50.

Although IR lights 50 are presently preferred, infra-blue (IB) and/orinfra-green (IG) lights or combinations thereof can be used to providebetter light penetration with less scattering. A combination of five IR(i.e. 660 nanometer) and six IG (i.e. 560 nanometer) lights has beenfound to provide approximately twice the visibility of an equivalentnumber of the foregoing higher powered IR lights alone. Controlcircuitry is also provided to control the lights 50. Other circuitry canbe provided to control the switching frequency of the lights. Lightsoperating at spectrum frequencies visible to humans, fish etc. can alsobe included to attract fish, plankton etc.

Although improving viewing, the intensity and reflection of the lights50 at the inside surface of the lens 24 can raise the operatingtemperature of the camera 10. Internal heating is partially offset bythe cooling provided by water. Internal heating is also reduced withimprovements provided below at FIGS. 24 and 25.

Particulates in the water can also reflect light back into the lens 24.These reflections can be minimized with a bi-focal surface 52 at thelens 24. The surface 52 aligns with the lights 50 and diffuses lightaway from the center of the lens 24. The surface 52 can be formed intothe lens 52 or as a separate lens. An anti-reflective coating 53 to IRlight is also applied to the interior of the lens 24 to minimize and/orprevent reflections. An ultraviolet (UV) coating can also be included atthe outer surface of the lens 24 to improve image contrast.

The internal operating temperatures of the camera 10 can also beminimized by mounting one or more piezoelectric coolers 54 to the backof a circuit board 56 that controls the camera 10 and other circuitry atthe camera 10. The additional cooling from the coolers 54 can reduce theoperating temperature to 10 degrees Centigrade versus a normal operatingtemperature of 30 to 40 degrees Centigrade. See also the discussion withrespect to FIG. 24 to a light reflecting ring that improves theoperating characteristics of the camera 10.

The camera's rubber housing 22 is also constructed to provide anextension ring 58. The ring 58 extends beyond the lens 24 and provides aresilient surface or bumper that protects the lens 24. The recessed lens24 is thereby protected from abrasion and scratching, for example, ifrocks or other hard objects are encountered.

The housing 22 is also filled with a desiccant material 57 (e.g. SiO₂)to prevent moisture that might occur with normal expansion andcontraction of the housing 22. The interior of the housing 22 can alsobe charged with an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon to preventfogging at the lens 24.

A light filter and/or lens collar 51 can be mounted to the exterior ofthe camera 10, as shown at FIG. 12, or with appropriate modification tothe interior. The collar 51 facilitates viewing in water of differingclarity and under diffused sunlight conditions. The collar 51 supports anumber of filters 53, although can also support one or more lenses 55 ofvarious magnifications and having other desired optical characteristics.Additional lights 50 can also be secured to the collar 51 to increaseillumination in heavily stained waters. A servo drive 57 mounted to thecollar 51 selectively rotates a desired filter 53 or lens 55 intoalignment with the lens 24. The rotation can be performed eithermanually or under operator control via one of the conductors 12.

Alternatively, a conventional threaded collar 51 can be fitted to thecamera 10 such as at the extension ring 58. An appropriate one of avariety of conventional threaded filters 53 or lenses 55 could bemounted to the collar 51 prior to immersion. Filters 53 can filter lightfrom any desired portion of the visible spectrum, for example, blue orred light. A filter that polarizes the light can also be attached.

The outer periphery of the collar 51 can also be extended and/or shaped,such as in a tubular form, to shade the lens 24 from ambient light inthe water. A detachable section might also be mounted to the collar 51or used alone to provide shade. The collar 51 may also include apertures(shown in dashed line) between the filters 53 and/or lenses 55 to permitwater to flow through the collar 51.

FIG. 13 depicts a portable storage arrangement of the system components.A carry case 60 having a handle 62 is fitted with a spool 64 thatcontains the cable 8. A bin 66 is recessed into a hinged cover 68 andsupports the camera 10. A shaped foam pad 70 inside the case 60 supportsthe monitor 6, a battery power supply 72 and other system accessories,such as the rudder 16, ballast 18, cable clip 34 and sunshield 42.

Although the carry case 60 adequately contains the system 2 andaccommodates normal deployment of the monitor 6 and camera 10, it ispreferable to integrate many of the components that are accessed by theoperator into a self-contained package. FIG. 14 depicts a housing 80that is constructed to securely contain a monitor 82, battery supply 84and necessary control circuitry 83 into a single housing 80. The monitor82 is viewable through a viewing port 86 at an integrated sunshield 88.The sunshield extends a sufficient distance and tapers inward tominimize the effects of ambient lighting in viewing the monitor 82.Although a rigid single section sunshield 88 is shown, the sunshield 88can be constructed of telescoping sections.

The cable 8 wraps over curved wrap arms 90 and 92. The arm 90 isprojects from the sunshield 88. A carry handle 94 extends from the arm90. A recessed cavity 96 is provided between the arms 90 and 92 tosupports the camera 10, attached rudder 16 and/or ballast 18. Otherrecesses or compartments might be provided in the housing 80 to containother accessories.

Necessary electrical attachments and controls are provided at a recess97 in a sidewall. Couplers 99 at the ends of the conductors 12 mount tothe available fittings 98. A multi-position switch 100 controls power tothe camera 10, lights 50 and monitor 6. A removable cover plate 102provides access to the battery 84, monitor 82 and control circuitry 83.The control circuitry can accommodate all system functions includingbattery charging, auxiliary power, communications, servo-control, sensormonitoring and display etc.

The housing 80 facilitates a controlled deployment of the camera 10.With the release of a sufficient length of cable 8, viewing is readilyaccommodated through the shaded viewing port 86, while either seated orstanding. The viewing port 86 is positioned in a range of 60 to 80degrees relative to the support surface on which the housing 80 rests.

Although the housing 80 is normally supported from a pair of feet 104and 106 on a hard surface, pivot arms 108 project from each side of thehousing 80. The pivots 108 mount to a bracket 110 that can be mounted toa wall of the boat 4. The housing 80 can be restrained with handfasteners 111, reference FIG. 15. Gripping pads, magnets, suction cupsor other gripping aids may also be supported to the feet 104 and 106 tostabilize the housing 80 during viewing.

With attention to FIG. 15, a housing 112 is shown that is similar to thehousing 80. A detachable sunshield 114 attaches to the housing 112 at anumber of mating fasteners 116, and 117, such as overlapping flanges ofinterlocking projections and apertures. The sunshield 114 can also behinged to the housing 112. The size of the viewing port 118 is providedat the point of attachment of the sunshield 114. The port 86 or 118 canthereby be varied. The port 118 can also be covered with a darkenedglass screen or cover 120, when the sunshield is not required.

FIG. 16 shows the housing 80 outfitted with a cable boom arm 15. A motorcontained in the housing 80 and operating under an internal controldeploys the cable 8 from a spool attached to or formed into the housing80. If used with a boat, the housing 80 would normally be secured to theboat to assure proper control over the cable. Although not shown, cablewrap arms 90 and 92 can be incorporated into the housings 80 and 112 ofFIGS. 15 and 16.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show an alternative monitor assembly 130 and wherein acover or sunshield 132 is detachably mounted to a base housing ormonitor support 134. The sunshield 132 is significantly shorter than thesunshield 88. FIGS. 19 and 20 show two other housings 136 and 138 thatprovide hand wound cable take-up spool assemblies 140 and 142. The cable8 from the spool 142 separately couples to a remote monitor, such as themonitor 130, or a video recorder (not shown).

With attention to FIGS. 17 and 18, the sunshield 132 is secured to themonitor housing 134 with a pair of pins 144 at aligned bores 146 and148. A rope handle 150 extends from the sunshield 132. In normal use,the screen 152 of a covered monitor 154 is visible through a viewingport 156. A battery power source (not shown) mounts in a space 158 atthe housing 134.

FIG. 19 depicts the monitor assembly 136 and which provides a moldedplastic housing 160 having a shape generally similar to the housing 80.A handle 162 projects from the housing 160 between a viewing port 164and the spooled cable take-up assembly 140. A spool 166 is supported torotate within a surrounding tray 168. A generously sized slot 170 opensto the spool 166 and storage space at the tray 168 to guide the cable 8into and out of the tray 168. A crank arm 170 rotates the spool 166. Amotorized drive might also be included to avoid hand operation.

A commercial slip ring assembly includes conductive terminals thatcouple to conductors that extend from a monitor 82 (not shown) containedin the housing 160. Other terminals in the slip ring assembly overlapand contact the monitor terminals. The overlapping conductors act in thefashion of slip rings to transfer signals to and from the monitor andthe conductors 12 in the cable 8. A variety of differently arranged slipring assemblies can be used to effect a suitable electrical coupling.

The housing 138 of FIG. 20 includes the hand-operated spool 142. Thecable 8 is retracted and released from the spool 142 via a hand crankarm 172. A handgrip 174 is provided at the top of the housing 138 tofacilitate transport and operation of the crank arm 172. Audio and videoconnectors or jacks 173 and 175 project from the housing 138 and coupleto a remote monitor, such as the monitor 130, a conventional TV or avideo recorder. Conductors 12 in the cable 8 couple to the jacks 173 and175 via a suitable slip ring assembly at the axle of the spool 142.

The camera 10 is supported to a multi-section ballast 180. The camera 10can be supported to the ballast 180 for forward or rear viewing.Identically shaped ballast pieces 181 are secured to each side of thelower web 20 of the camera 10 with nut and bolt fasteners 21, see alsoFIG. 21 and wherein an enlarged view is shown to the camera 10. Eachballast piece 181 presents an aero or hydrodynamic shape. A wing 182laterally projects from the longitudinal side of each ballast piece 181.Forward and aft ends 184 and 186 are shaped to cooperate and stabilizecamera movement. A rudder 188 extends from the rear camera web 20.

FIG. 22 shows a camera 10 fitted with an enlarged rudder 190. Therudders 188 and 190 provide a longer longitudinal surface versus therudder 16. The rudders 188 and 190 have been found to reduce lateralsway, and/or twisting of the camera, while promoting a straight-linetracking.

FIG. 23 shows another camera 10 mounted to the ballast 180. A keel 192depends from the ballast 180 and the camera 10 is mounted in a rearfacing orientation. The ability to arrange the camera 10 for forward orrear viewing enhances operator options. Depending upon the configurationof any lens/filter arrangement at the camera housing, a rear viewingcamera 10 can reduces turbulence and promote tracking.

Returning attention to FIG. 20 and mounted in front of the internalcamera lens 19 and lens cover 202 of the camera 10 is a chrome-platedlight diffuser/reflection suppressor 194. A circular center bore 196 isaligned to the internal viewing lens 19 of the camera 10. A series ofconcentric bores 198, in turn, are aligned to the individual lights 50.With attention also to FIGS. 24 and 25, each of the bores 198 providesan elongated or oblong outer aperture 199 that tapers inward to acircular aperture 200. The tapered, oblong bores 198 are designed tofocus and reflect the emitted light in a circular pattern around thecamera's field of view without impinging on the internal lens 19.Undesired reflections are thereby avoided.

Light control is also enhanced at the lens cover 202 with a laser-etchedpattern 204. An annular band containing a series of radial lines 204 isparticularly provided that diffuses the light exiting the bores 198. Theetched lines 204 prevent internal reflections and hot spots andfacilitate the diffusion of the emitted light. The shape and placementof the pattern 204 can be varied as desired in relation to the numberand placement of the lights 50. The pattern 204 may also comprise raisedfacets in lieu of etched lines.

Also shown at the camera 10 in FIG. 24 is a downrigger support clipassembly 206. A rear view of the assembly 206 is shown in FIG. 26. Theassembly 206 includes an adjuster plate 208 and a clip plate 210.Fasteners 21 secure the adjuster plate 208 to the aft web 20 of thecamera 10. A wing nut 211 and pivot fastener 212 secures the adjusterplate 208 to the clip plate 210. The clip plate 210 is secured to adownrigger cable 216 that is suspended from the boat 4 and attached to aweight 217 by weaving the cable into a number of vertically alignedgrooves 218 at the aft end of the clip plate 210.

Upon adjusting the angle of the plates 208 and 210 and tightening thefastener 212 in relation to interlocking patterned surfaces 214 on theplates 208 and 210, a rear facing or back viewing orientation of thecamera 10 is established relative to the downrigger cable 216. Aseparate tether 220 can be mounted from the cable 216 to the camera 10to separately contain the camera to the cable 216.

FIG. 27 depicts another camera 222 that is outfitted with threeconcentric rows of lights 50 that surround the internal camera lens 19and produce a “flood” light effect. The camera 222 is especially usefulin stained and muddy waters. The lens cover 224 exhibits a convex domeshape to direct the light away from the lens 19. The cover 224 can alsoinclude an appropriate etched pattern to further direct the emittedlight. The frequencies of the lights 50 can be arranged to any desiredcombination to facilitate viewing. Switching can also be included at themonitor housing to selectively control which of the lights 50 areilluminated.

Another feature that has been provided for in the present viewingsystems is the ability to selectively store or save periods of viewedimages. FIG. 28 depicts a series of control buttons that permit storingup to 32 digital still frame images for later replay. The feature isenabled with on/off button 226 and “store” button 228. The capturedanalog data is digitized and stored in a suitably sized RAM memory. Achronological time/date stamp can be imposed on the images via “time”button 230.

Once stored, the images can be re-played by pressing the “play” button.The system operator is thereby able to capture selected images for laterviewing. The images can also be coupled to an appropriately configuredprinter.

Another portable mounting assembly 240 of the present viewing system isshown in FIGS. 29 and 30. A monitor 242 having appendages 243 is mountedto pivot at a gimbal bracket 244 that projects from a shuttle housing246. A cavity 248 is formed into the shuttle 246 to contain a storagebattery (not shown). Pivot clips 247 retain the battery in the cavity248. The camera 10 is contained beneath the monitor 242 between lateraluprights 250. The cable 8 (not shown) is wrapped and stored at a centerspool 252 of the shuttle 246.

A handgrip 254 is formed into the end of an upper spool plate 255 thatassists in shuttle transport and cable wrapping. A series of cablelacing notches 256 at the edge of the plate 255 contain the cable 8,once deployed, until the cable 8 is released and re-laced at the notches256.

A sunshield 258 is slide mounted in dovetail fashion along an oppositeedge of the upper plate 255. The sunshield 258 can be released andattached to monitor 242 by sliding the arms 260 and 262 along the sidesof the monitor 242 until the sunshield 258 abuts the stop flange 264. Atthis point, the sunshield is aligned to the viewing screen.

An on/off switch 266 and fuse port 268 are provided adjacent a cableinput jack 270 and video output jack 272. The shuttle 246 occupies afootprint of approximately 6 inches×10 inches and readily mounts onavailable surfaces in a boat or viewing shelter.

While the invention has been described with respect to a preferredconstruction and considered improvements or alternatives thereto, stillother constructions and improvements may be suggested to those skilledin the art. The foregoing description should therefore be construed toinclude all those embodiments within the spirit and scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A submersible video viewing system, comprising:a) a camera encased in a waterproof rubber housing, wherein a pluralityof lights are mounted in the housing around the periphery of a cameralens, wherein a lens cover is mounted forward of said camera lens b) acable including a plurality of conductors; and c) a monitor having adisplay screen coupled to said camera by said conductors for displayingvideo images captured by said camera at said display screen.
 2. Aviewing system as set forth in claim 1 wherein said plurality of lightsare concentrically arranged to said camera lens and wherein saidplurality of lights emit lights of a plurality of different wavelengthsand colors.
 3. A viewing system as set forth in claim 2 wherein saidplurality of lights comprise a plurality of infrared and visible coloredlights.
 4. A viewing system as set forth in claim 1 wherein saidplurality of lights emit light at different spectral frequencies.
 5. Aviewing system as set forth in claim 4 including means for selectivelycontrolling which of said plurality of lights are turned on duringviewing.
 6. A viewing system as set forth in claim 1 wherein adetachable sunshield is mountable to align with said display screen. 7.A viewing system as set forth in claim 1 wherein said camera housingincludes a plurality of webs, wherein a ballast is secured to one ofsaid webs, and wherein a rudder is secured to said ballast.
 8. A viewingsystem as set forth in claim 1 including a support that spans an icehole and has a member that grips said cable to suspend the camera fromsaid hole.
 9. A submersible video viewing system, comprising: a) acamera encased in a waterproof rubber housing, wherein a plurality oflights operating at frequencies in the infrared and visible spectrumsare mounted in the housing in concentric relation to a camera lens,wherein a lens cover is mounted to said housing forward of said cameralens, wherein a web projects from the camera housing, and wherein aballast is secured to said web; b) a cable including a plurality ofconductors secured to the camera housing; and c) a power supply and amonitor having a display screen coupled to said camera by saidconductors for displaying images captured by said camera at said displayscreen.
 10. A viewing system as set forth in claim 9 including a ruddercoupled to said camera housing.
 11. A viewing system as set forth inclaim 9 wherein a detachable sunshield is mountable to align with saiddisplay screen.
 12. A viewing system as set forth in claim 9 including asupport that spans an ice hole and has a member that grips said cable tosuspend the camera from said hole.
 13. A submersible video viewingsystem, comprising: a) a camera encased in a waterproof housing, whereina plurality of lights that emit light at different wavelengths andcolors are mounted in the housing in concentric relation to a cameralens, and wherein a ballast is coupled to the camera housing; b) a cableincluding a plurality of conductors secured to the camera housing; andc) a power supply and a monitor having a display screen coupled to saidcamera by said conductors for displaying images captured by said cameraat said display screen.
 14. A viewing system as set forth in claim 13wherein a detachable sunshield is mountable to align with said displayscreen.
 15. A viewing system as set forth in claim 13 wherein saidmonitor means includes means for collecting and storing said cable. 16.A viewing system as set forth in claim 13 including a support that spansan ice hole and has a member that grips the cable to suspend the camerafrom said hole.
 17. A submersible video viewing system, comprising: a) acamera encased in a waterproof housing,. wherein a plurality of lightsthat emit light at different wavelengths are mounted in the housingabout the periphery of a camera lens, and wherein a ballast is coupledto the camera housing; b) a cable including a plurality of conductorssecured to the camera housing; and c) a power supply and a monitorhaving:a display screen coupled to said camera by said conductors fordisplaying images captured by said camera at said display screen.
 18. Aviewing system as set forth in claim 17 including means for selectivelycontrolling the illumination of said plurality of lights during viewing.19. A viewing system as set forth in claim 17 wherein said plurality oflights are selected from a class including infrared, red, blue and greenlights.
 20. A viewing system as set forth in claim 17 wherein adetachable sunshield is mountable to align with said display screen. 21.A viewing system as set forth in claim 17 wherein a rudder is coupled tosaid camera housing.
 22. A viewing system as set forth in claim 17wherein said camera housing includes a plurality of webs, wherein saidballast is secured to one of said webs, and wherein a rudder is securedto another of said webs.
 23. A viewing system as set forth in claim 17wherein said ballast comprises a support secured to said camera housingto support said camera from a stationary surface.
 24. A submersiblevideo viewing system, comprising: a) a camera encased in a waterproofhousing, wherein a plurality of lights that emit light of differentwavelengths and colors are mounted in the housing about the periphery ofa camera lens, and wherein a ballast is secured to the camera housing;b) a cable including a plurality of conductors secured to the camerahousing; and c) a power supply and a monitor having a display screencoupled to said camera by said conductors for displaying images capturedby said camera at said display screen.
 25. A viewing system as set forthin claim 24 wherein said plurality of lights include lights selectedfrom a class including lights emitting light in the infrared, red, blueand green spectrums.
 26. A viewing system as set forth in claim 24including means for selectively controlling which of said plurality oflights are illuminated during viewing.
 27. A viewing system as set forthin claim 24 wherein said plurality of lights include lights that emitred and green light.
 28. A viewing system as set forth in claim 24wherein a rudder is secured to said camera housing.
 29. A submersiblevideo viewing system, comprising: a) a camera encased in a waterproofhousing, wherein a plurality of lights that emit light at differentwavelengths are mounted in the housing about the periphery of a cameralens, and wherein a ballast and a rudder are coupled to the camerahousing; b) a cable including a plurality of conductors secured to thecamera housing; and c) a power supply and a monitor having a displayscreen coupled to said camera by said conductors for displaying imagescaptured by said camera at said display screen.
 30. A viewing system asset forth in claim 29 wherein said plurality of lights include lightsthat are visible to humans and lights that are invisible to humans. 31.A viewing system as set forth in claim 29 wherein said plurality oflights include lights selected from a class including lights emittinglight in the infrared, red, blue and green spectrums.
 32. A viewingsystem as set forth in claim 29 including means for selectivelycontrolling the illumination of said plurality of lights during viewing.33. A viewing system as set forth in claim 13 including means forselectively controlling the illumination of said plurality of lightsduring viewing.